On the occasion of the Mawlid An-Nabi celebrations, the Ministry of Health urged parents on Sunday to exercise heightened vigilance regarding the hazards associated with firecrackers and pyrotechnics, while reiterating emergency protocols to mitigate complications and safeguard victims’ well-being.
Warning of the catastrophic outcomes of holiday incidents—most frequently varying degrees of burns—the ministry advised that immediate first aid for burns requires cooling the affected area under lukewarm running water for roughly 15 minutes.
Conversely, applying ice directly to burns or resorting to traditional home remedies and non-medical substances is strongly discouraged, as these methods risk worsening the injury.
Special attention must be given to severe burns and injuries affecting the eyes, face, or hands. In such cases, or if complications arise, the victim should be transported immediately to the nearest emergency department. It is critical not to downplay these injuries or attempt interventions that could worsen the patient’s condition.
This cautionary statement comes on the eve of Mawlid, a period typically marked by a surge in pyrotechnic use. In its public safety message, the health ministry highlighted that fireworks pose genuine threats to public health and safety, calling for a complete avoidance of their use.
Citing clinical records from hospital emergency rooms over recent years, the ministry reminded the public that detonations can cause severe burns and trauma to hands, fingers, arms, face, and eyes, often leaving permanent scars or deformities. In extreme cases, hand-held fireworks explosions lead to finger or limb amputations.
Eyes remain among the most vulnerable organs. A nearby explosion can cause contusions, burns, ulcerations, and severe ocular trauma. In the worst scenarios, it may result in globe rupture and permanent vision loss.
The risk extends beyond those directly handling these items; bystanders face hazards from flying debris and unexpected blasts. Children are especially vulnerable, making parental oversight and keeping minors away from fireworks essential.
Beyond physical trauma, pyrotechnics present serious fire hazards when ignited near homes, vehicles, or flammable materials. High-decibel detonations also generate noise pollution that impairs health, particularly for young children, the elderly, chronic patients, and pregnant women, carrying a risk of hearing impairment.
Parental vigilance remains critical, especially regarding children and teenagers. Ultimately, the ministry encourages celebrating Mawlid An-Nabi in a spirit of joy, peace, and fellowship, free from dangerous practices.